Device for building construction

ABSTRACT

This system of building utilizes prefabricated elements constituting a framework and consists essentially in utilizing tubular main posts and small posts, and trussed beams supported thereby. The floor and ceiling structures comprise trough-shaped elements and/or flanged tubs bolted to said posts. The walls are formed by composite hollow panels structures filled with insulating material. All component elements, including door and window frames, have modular dimensions and are prefabricated are adapted to be assembled on the building site.

Umted States Patent 1 1 1111 3,

Benedetti Dec. 23, 1975 [5 1 DEVICE FOR BUILDING CONSTRUCTION 3,6l8,280 11/1971 Langston 52/234 x inventor: Pierre Benedmi sarcenes France 3,783,563 1/1974 Moore 52/284 X [73] Assignee: Sylvette Kirnisky, Sarcelles, France FOREIGN PATENTS OR APPLICATIONS [22], flied Nov 28 1973 475,598 7/1951 Canada 52/650 211 Appl 419 4 4 Primary Examiner-Henry C. Sutherland A Assistant Examiner-Carl D. Friedman F0 pplgcafio Pri my D ta Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Wenderoth, Lind & Ponack reign in o a Dec. 8, I972 France 72.43733 51 ABSTRACT [52] Us Cl. 52/236. 52/. 521262. This system of building utilizes prefabricated elements 52/264: 4 onstituting a framework and consists essentially in 51 Int. (:1. 1304!! 1/00- E6415 1/19 "filling main P"sts and and 581 Field of 52/236 23 1 648 141 beams Pinned thereby- The and 52 650 264, 284, 2 y 2 mg structures comprise trough-shaped elements and I 35 690 lot flanged tubs bolted to said posts. The walls are [56] References Cited formed by composite hollow panels structures filled with insulating material. All component elements, in- UNITED T j PATENTS eluding door and window frames, have modular di- H 52 124 mensions and are prefabricated are adapted to be asa e a. 3,474,582 10/1969 Wah et a1. 52/648 X sembled on the bulldmg sue 3,503,166 3/1970 Nakazawa et a1 52/264 X 19 Claims, 16 Figures US. Patent Dec.23, 1975 Sheet 1 of5 3,927,498

U.S. Patent Dec. 23, 1975 Sheet 2 of5 3,927,498

US. Patent Dec. 23, 1975 Sheet 3 of5 3,927,498

US. Patent Dec. 23, 1975 Sheet 4 of5 3,927,498

4 -LM :P L

US. Patent Dec. 23, 1975 Sheet5 0f5 3,927,498

DEVICE FOR BUILDING CONSTRUCTION BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION assembled simply and rapidly, for constructing miscell laneous houses and buildings adapted to be modified if necessary, and furthermore the constructions obtained from these elements are:

- adaptable as desired to meet various requirements,

the combination of these elements permiting multifarious different constructions;

convertible at any time in the three main dimensions (length, width and height) by adding or removing elements, thus making it possible to answer changing requirements when necessary;

adapted to be disassembled, since the assemblies of elements are not irreversible and the erection of a building does not compulsorily require considerable work for adapting same to the specific nature and character of the ground;

characterised by a greater comfort due to the improved thermal and sound insulation of the component elements, the mobility of the inner partition elements and the interchangeability of the exterior facing panels, which afi'ord a complete liberty in the choice of the interior lay-out during the construction;

reliable since the various handlings of the construction elements cannot alter to any extent the quality of the sealing joints designed to this end, which, considering a normal use thereof, will not be damaged and preserve their efficiency from one assembling operation to another;

characterised by a longer useful life, especially in view of the fact that its component elements, in case of damages, can be replaced at any time with new elements, this also applying to the aforesaid sealing joints which are easily accessible.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION This invention consists in utilizing essentially the following construction elements a preferably metallic carrier and light-weight framework consisting on the one hand of tubular main posts distributed along the entire perimeter of the construction and disposed in any suitable and desired manner, and on the other hand of trussed beams assembled to one another by means of small posts similar to the main posts, to constitute at the bottom a floor supporting structure and at the top a ceiling and roof supporting structure, as well as the general wind-bracing structure of the construction,

a pavement or flagging, having a heat insulating function and consisting of prefabricated girders, which comprises two opposed channel elements assembled with each other by means of a suitable cement or equivalent means, the cavity constituted by this channel assembly being filled with sound and heat insulating material.

Other features and advantages of this invention will appear as the following description proceeds with reference to the attached drawings illustrating diagrammatically by way of example a typical embodiment of the invention. In the drawings:

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a building framework structure constructed according to the teachings of this invention;

FIGS. 2, 3 and 5 are a vertical section and two horizontal sections, respectively, showing details of the construction;

FIG. 4 is a plan view from above showing on a reduced scale the arrangement of the covering tub assemblies and the assembling of the various panels to the tubular main posts of the framework;

FIGS. 6 and 7 are a vertical section and a horizontal section, respectively, showing the use of sealing joints between superposed and juxtaposed panels;

FIG. 8 is a vertical section showing an interior partition arrangement;

FIG. 8a is a horizontal section showing a pair of juxtaposed interior partitions;

FIGS. 9, 10 and 11 are an elevational view and two perspective views on a larger scale, respectively, showing the method of assembling superposed vertical tubular main posts, and the means therefor;

FIG. 12 is a horizontal section showing the use of a duct and pipe or service partition;

FIG. 13 is a sectional view of a special roofing tub, and

FIGS. 14 and 15 are vertical and horizontal sections, respectively, showing typical window and door frames.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT As clearly shown in FIG. 1, the framework of the building or house illustrated by way of example is a metal framework comprising vertical elements consisting of tubular main post 10 of any suitable square-section configuration, and horizontal elements consisting of trussed beams 11.

The main posts 10 are distributed along the construction perimeter with a relative spacing consistent with the general lay-out module of the projected construction. Intermediate posts, for avoiding excessive spans in the trussed beams, may be disposed as required in this construction. On the other hand, these intermediate posts are provided from the onset at certain points of the construction as will be explained presently.

In the selected example the trussed beams 11 consist of section irons l2 interconnected by bracing members 13, for instance round sectioned irons. These trussed beams, of which the major dimension or length corresponds to the module of the construction, are assembled with small posts 14 having the same cross-sectional configuration as the main carrier posts 10. They are rigidly assembled by bolting and constitute at the lower portion of the structure a lattice network supporting the floor 15 and at the upper portion a ceiling and roofing supporting network as clearly shown in FIG. 1.

According to this invention, an integral thermal-gap flagging is incorporated in the floor structure. This flagging, shown diagrammatically at 16 in FIG. 1 and on a larger scale in FIG. 2, consists of prefabricated compound joists. The length of these prefabricated compound joists corresponds to the construction module or to a multiple thereof, and the joists themselves consist each of a pair of metal channels 17, 17a assembled with their concavities facing each other and containing a core 18 consisting in the selected example 3 and preferbly of a loaf" of expanded polystyrene or any other material suitable for the purpose. This flagging is also incorporated in storey floors. These joists are laid with the interposition of a heat and sound insulating material upon the top surface of the trussed beams 11 constituting the floor supporting network. The top surface of the flagging 16 consisting of the aforesaid joists is advantageously lined with panels of relatively great dimensions, notably of wood or equivalent material, to constitute the flooring proper of the rooms, which may subsequently be covered in turn with any desired material such as carpets, moquette, etc.

The small posts 14 supporting the floor are each provided with a ram 19 permitting the bearing and adjustment of this floor. Along the room edges angleirons 20 fastened to the framework limit the floor area toward the facade or exteriorwalls.

In the example illustrated in FIG. 2 the construction is somewhat spaced from the supporting ground in order to provide a so-called sanitary" gap of a magnitude consistent with the height contemplated for the trussed beams l 1. Alternatively and as shown in FIG. 3 the construction may bear directly as conventional on a concrete pavement 21, or if desired on a nogging or pugging layer overlying said sanitary" gap, or a cellar, as a substitute for the trussed beams and prefabricated floor. In this case, the main posts 10 comprise each at their base an anchoring lug embedded in the flagging through any suitable means. These main posts are interconnected, on the frontage, by marginal section members 22 shaped for receiving facade panels or like revetment elements, as well as shuttering edges when casting the floor finishing layers constituting the room flooring.

According to another feature characterising this invention, the construction comprises a roofing or covering structure incorporating tubs 23 visible more particularly in FIG. 1 and adapted to collect and drain off rain water, the use of these tubs making it possible to dispense with the use of troughs and roof-gutters or other rainwater discharge means.

These covering tubs 23 consisting of metallic, plastic or other materials, notably plywood, are so dimensioned that they fit properly in the meshes constituted by the trussed beams 11; furthermore, these tubs comprise integral marginal outer flanges 23a bearing on the suitably shaped upper surfaces of these trussed beams l 1.

Any rain-water from the terrace thus formed by the tubs 23 is drained off through cylindrical nozzles 24 located approximately centrally of the four sides of each tub so as to communicate with one another. The water-tightness of these tubs is obtained by using acroterium section or edge cover members 25 disposed astride on the marginal flanges 23a of tubs 23 with the interposition of a suitable sealing strip or other jointing materials or means. These acroterium section members 25 are bolted to the suitably shaped upper elements of the tnissed beams. At the comers of tubs 23 crossshaped cover members 26 are bolted to the top of main posts 10 or small posts 14 to complete the sealing means.

This fastening arrangement efficiently prevent any lifting of the roofing under strong wind conditions.

Another tub 28 of particular configuration (see FIG. 4) is disposed on top of the duct and pipe cell to be discussed presently and receives in a channel 28a the rainwater and in its central portion the ducts and pipes 4 such as 29, 29a for the heating, ventilation, aeration, exhaust, air-conditioning and other systems. At other locations the same type of tub may receive in its central portion designed for this purpose a translucent or opaque cupola, whether openable or not.

The shape of the main tubs 23 is designed to facilitate the draining off of rain water, and the absorption of any expansion caused by temperature variations is permitted by their lyre shaped cross-section. The raised, convex shape of the bottom surfaces of these tubs 23 is advantageous in that, in addition to the improved rainwater draining feature, they can accomodate and protect a thermal and sound screen consisting for example of plates 27 of expanded polystyrene or other material, with or without the application of a sound-proofing flocked layer.

If an accessible storey or terrace is contemplated, the floor thereof will consist of grating-forming panels of wood or other suitable materiel, supported by tubs 23 and bearing on the peripheral flanges of the acroterium section members 25, the rain water being drained off through a suitable opening of floor and collected by tubs 23. Outer wall or front string-courses and, if necessary, parapets or balustrades are bolted to the tops of main posts 10 above the cross-shaped covers 26 registering with the framework nodes.

Alternatively, to permit the construction of a sloping roof in lieu of terrace-tubs, a light-weight trussed metal framework constituting a twoor four-sided roof, with a variable inclination for the lost or unused attics, with or without fixed frame or bracket, is secured to the tops of the main and/or small posts of the carrier framework.

This framework is covered with the roof purlins receiving the roofing panels nailed or stapled, on which any desired covering such as tiles, slates, asphalt and asbestos shingles may be laid. In this case, the rainwater is drained off in the conventional fashion through eavesgutters or troughs with front down-pipes.

A false ceiling consisting (see FIG. 1) of gratings 30 of same size as the modular elements or meshes e of the carrier framework, or corresponding to a multiple or submultiple thereof, made of wooden elements, wooden sections or moulded plastic elements, or any other suitable material, with or without integral reinforcing ribs, is secured by means of projections 30a to the underface of the roofing trussed beams 11. The visible face of this false-ceiling may of course be painted or lined with material of any suitable type.

The construction is lined with front or exterior panels 31 shown more particularly in FIGS. 2 and 5, one panel being shown in vertical section and the other in horizontal section; these panels are preferably light-weight panels of prefabricated sandwich construction, their length corresponding likewise to the modular length e of the construction, or to a multiple or sub-multiple thereof.

More particularly, the panels according to this invention consist of a tubular frame made preferably of squaresectioned metal tubes 32 and adapted to stiffen the panel, with facing sheets 33, 33a of any suitable material, such as sheet-metal, plywood, asbestos cement boards, etc. covered by an external lining 34 consisting for example of sandstone cement, glass, lamellar stones, sheet-metal, sandstone, luamelles sandstone or stoneware, etc.

The space bounded by the frame 32 and the facing material is filled with any suitable material such as expanded polystyrene, polyurethane foam, phenolic foam, etc., in order to provide a core 35 having reliable isolating and insulating properties.

This panel is surrounded or enframed by an assembly of section members 36 secured to the panel by means of a suitable cement or other means, the specific crosssectional shape of the members 36 being clearly shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

This metal or plastic section member 36 comprises more particularly a central U-shaped portion having its vertical arms 36a bent at right angles towards each other, such central portion being connected to the side wings 37 cemented to the revetments 33, 33a and to the frame 32, with notches 37a formed therein to facilitate the anchoring thereof to revetments.

Each central portion 36 constitutes a channel 38 acting as a gutter for draining off any condensation fluids and also as a means for fastening secondary anchoring elements such as comer posts, as will be explained presently. V

This central portion 36, in conjunction with the corresponding side of the section member, provides on either side a channel 39 having notched edges 40 adapted to be engaged by weather strips 41 capable of sealing the joint between two juxtaposed or coupled panels 31, or section members such as 42 shaped for snap engagement into the respective channel and also; in their portion projecting from the panel to constitute a weather-strip, in the case of superposed panels, as shown in FIG. 7. Other sections such as 43 may also be detachably fitted into the channels 39, these sections 43 extending vertically between juxtaposed adjacent panels 31 (see also FIG. 7) and being lined with foam strips 43a for preserving or restoring the water-tightness of a panel assembly in case the joint does not comprise a framework main post 10.

The section members 37 are folded as at 37b to protect the revetment edges and the lining thereof.

A vapour protection sheet 44 may also be provided on the internal side of frame 32 as a function of the specific nature or material composition of the revetments and/or the linings thereof.

Each exterior panel 31 constitutes a non-carrier filling element mounted on the framework elements according to a specific method constituting a particular feature of this invention, as will now be described in detail with reference notably to FIGS. 1 and 2:

Each panel is suspended at its upper portion from a roof or storey trussed beam by means of hooks 45 rigid with the panel and engaging corresponding studs 46 rigid with the trussed beams. The panel position in the vertical direction is adjusted by means of screws 47 (FIG. 1) engaging tapped holes formed in hooks 45.

This way of suspending the top of the panel from the trussed beams makes it possible to take advantage of the panel weight for reinforcing the pressure exerted thereby on the sealing strips or joints.

On the other hand, this method of erecting the panels prevents warping stress from being generated in the panels, thus ensuring a continuous adherence of the Weatherstrip and other sealing strips while affording a certain clearance at the bottom of each panel not only for discharging any condensation likely to develop along the panel edges but also for permitting a certain panel expansion in case of temperature variations.

The panel 31 is subsequently secured to the bottom of the framework (see FIG. 5) by means of bolts loosely 6 engaging flanges 48 surrounding the framework main posts 10.

If a concrete floor is contemplated, the panels are fastened at their base by loosely bolting then to the edge section member 22 already mentioned in the foregoing (see FIG. 3) provided for mutually assembling the framework main posts 10.

The front or exterior fluid-tightness is obtained automatically by assembling, due to the presence of weatherstrips 41 having lips 41a engaged in the channels 39 formed by section members 37 enframing the panels. This water-tightness is reinforced by a foam strip or like seal 49 cemented vertically along the outer surfaces of main posts 10 (see FIG. 5) and adapted, due to the arrangement contemplated for mounting the panels to the framework, to be pressed by the panel in its final position. These weatherstrips 41 are also useful in that they provide a heat and sound insulating gap between the interior and exterior of the construction. Thus, a complete weather tightness is obtained automatically by simply mounting or fitting the panels in position.

In the case of superposed panels (see FIG. 6) the weather-strip or watertight moulding 42 already mentioned hereinabove will assure automatically the horizontal watertightness with the adjacent underlying panel when fitting the upper panel in position.

This water-tightness is also obtained, in case the vertical joint is not coincident with a front panel, due to the presence of a section member 43 incorporating a foam strip 43a (see FIG. 7) which has also been discussed in the foregoing.

With the original arrangements contemplated according to this invention all types of panels can be made, such as plain or solid panels, door panels, window panels, bay panels, etc. Thus, FIG. 5 illustrates a typical assembly of corner panels; this angle assembly comprises along its projecting corner a panel 50 of adequate configuration, and along its re-entrant corner formed by a pair of perpendicular panels 51, 51a a false post 52 having its inner surfaces lined with a finishing material 53, such false comer 52 being assembled in turn with a framework main post 10, as shown.

The joinery incorporated in the construction consists of wooden, metal, glass or plastic elements, but other materials may be used as well. An outer frame 54 of wood, metal, plastic or other material is fastened by means of screws to the inner joinery elements of the panel for clamping a sealing strip or gasket 54a against a panel 31 and thus protect the window bay 55 against rain-water; under these conditions, it is clear that all joinery elements are an integral part of the panel and can be prepared complete with window panes or glasses at the manufacturers workshop (see FIG. 14).

Alternatively, the panels may be made of moulded plastic material. In this case they comprise a pair of half-shells of moulded plastic material with the gutterforming channels moulded integrally therewith for fixing the sealing strips; these shells are cemented to both sides of the metal frame, with the interposition of a suitable filling material such as polyurethane foam, phenolic foam, polystyrene foam, etc. If desired, plastic revetment lining sheets lacquered or painted or varnished directly, or adapted to be covered by gluing or cementing with various lining materials such as stoneware, enamelled sandstone, lamellar stones, etc.

The inner partitions for dividing the space into rooms or for doubling the front exterior walls, are storey-high and modular as a function of the preselected module.

and also adapted to be easily disassembled when required.

These inner partitions (FIGS. 8 and 8a) are formed as follows The outer revetrnents or lining 56 may remain, in the raw state or be lined with suitable coating material, such as paint, plastic film, etc. and consist of thin plywood sheets, althrough boards of cellular fibres pressed into rigid sheets may also be used, as well as asbestos cement and other suitable materials.

The core 57 consists of expanded polystyrene, phenolic foam, polyurethane foam or other similar materials, whether cemented or injected.

The longitudinal sections are provided with dual section members of plastic or other material each comprising a pair of asymmetrical wings, Le. a male wing 58 and a female wing 59, in cross-section, the latter being substantially U-shaped, so that when assembled with their concavitities registering with each other these members provide a central empty space 60 in which electric wirings for subsequent and accessory applicances can be enclosed and secured therein. Furthermore, this shape is also effective for protecting the longitudinal edges of the partition.

Glued wooden cross members 61, 61a complete the outer ends of the partition element. The upper cross member 61 is grooved to permit the sliding engagement therein of centering studs 62 for properly positioning and holding the partitions with respect to the ceiling 63. The bottom cross member 610 has vertical holes formed therethrough for receiving the rod of the fastening rams 64.

These partitions are positioned as follows at the selected location the holes necessary for receiving the centering and positioning studs 62 are drilled in the vertical median plane of the partition. The partition element disposed vertically in axial alignment with these holes is lifted by actuating the rams 64 until the studs 62 carried by the top edge of the element engage the aforesaid holes. It is not necessary to tighten the partition in position, a foam strip 65 glued to the upper cross member of the partition element absorbing any residual play while providing the necessary sound isolation with the remaining structure.

The partition element is subsequently fitted into the preceding element as shown in FIG. 8. Before fitting the floor or bottom skirting boards 66 the base plate 64a of each ram is nailed or otherwise secured to the floor.

If the axis of a partition element is coincident with the joint plane of two ceiling elements, the centering studs 62 are driven through this slot, between two ceiling panels, without drilling any holes.

The doors 67 (FIG. are mounted, complete with their frame, at the selected location by fastening the door frame to the lateral partitions and to the floor.

A solid partition 670 having the same appearance as the other partition elements has embedded or incorporated therein a longitudinal trough-shaped metal member 68 to provide a duct and pipe or service partition adapted to be equipped at the manufacturers workshop with prefabricated duct and pipe sections 69 for heating, electric wiring, sanitary and plumbing appliances, or other circuits. A detachable cover is provided and afi'ords an easy access to these ducts and pipe means and also for connecting them to similar and main networks embedded in the empty ceiling space (FIG. l2).

The vertical members of the structure (see notably FIGS. 9, l0 and 11) comprising the main posts 10 and small posts 14, 14a supporting the trussed beams are assembled according to this invention by means comprising essentially a pair of half-straps A (see FIG. 10) and B (FIG. 11) consisting each of a base plate 0 having on their assembling face a pair of projections b of any suitable configuration, in which aligned holes 0 are formed along an axis parallel to the base plate a. Through the base plate a of one of these two half-straps (for example A), a circular hole d is formed, and another hole d, of non'circular shape, for example of polygonal configuration, is formed in the other base plate.

FIG. 9 illustrates the manner in which the vertical posts 10, 14 and 14a are assembled by means of the abovedescribed pairs of straps A and B, notably for superposing these posts.

Thus, starting from the bottom or lower small posts 14a, a first half-strap A is fitted for guiding the rod of ram 64 which engages the circular hole formed centrally of the base plate of such half-strap A.

Then, this lower or bottom small post 14a is assembled by means of a pair of half-straps assembled as shown in the drawing, by cementing or by using any other suitable means, and fastening cross-pins may be inserted through the holes c, if desired. The same assembling procedure is adhered to for mounting on top of the main post 10 the upper small post 14. On top of this small post 14 a half-strap B having a hexagonal central hole a is fitted, this hole d, being adapted to receive a hexagonal nut (nut shown) engageable by a bolt 26a for fastening and holding in position a crossshaped closing or covering member 26 (see FIG. I

When heightening the construction or ceiling, or when it is contemplate to mount a roofing truss structure, a half-strap A is cemented or otherwise secured on top of the half-strap B already fitted on the post assembly.

The half-straps A and B may be made from any suitable material, for example cast iron.

In the room lay-out within a construction of the type described hereinabove it is advantageous, according to this invention, to provide a duct and pipe or wiring cell space or room of which the position is subordinate to the selected lay-out and is liable to constitute a convenient swiching or distribution point for all the service systems contemplated. Basically, its horizontal crosssectional or floor area corresponds to one modular unit, with four framework posts at the corners for supporting the roofing or covering trussed beams.

This duct and pipe or wiring cell space or room comprises four partitions of same general composition as the ordinary partition elements, constituting one-unit structures but lined internally with asbestoscement or other fireproof material, the panel filing consisting of fiberglass or any other fireproof material.

A door is fitted in one of the partition panels to afford an easy access to this duct and pipe cell.

Adjacent this duct and pipe cell space or room are the service rooms such as kitchen, bathroom, watercloset, etc., or a laboratory, if desired. With this method it is thus possible to manufacture complete prefabricated duct and pipe systems incorporated at the workshop in the square-sectioned duct and pipe cell space or room, and accessible from the outside, the corresponding ducts and pipes, as well as the wirings, if provided, comprising outlets through apertures opening to the exterior which are formed directly when manufacturing the partitions in the adjacent rooms, the appliances being thus connected directly or through duct and pipe means disposed between the covering tubs and the false ceiling for connecting the various rooms of the construction, the drain pipes, if any, being incorporated in the duct and pipe partitions mentioned in the foregoing.

A one-storey high service or duct and pipe block unit may complete this duct and pipe cell, space or room. The function of this unit, having the same general arrangements as, but smaller dimensions than, the duct and pipe cell, space or room, is to facilitate the distribution of fluid, etc. to the various rooms of the construction. As in the case of the aforesaid duct and pipe cell, space or room 28, this unit has its walls perforated for receiving the prefabricated duct and pipe means for distributing or draining off fluids, etc., and also for ventilation, air-conditioning means and all other services. lt is also adapted to be inspected from within the cell, space or room.

The above-described construction may comprise the following service means Electric supply mains, the board with the meter and cutouts is incorporated or not in the duct and pipe cell or room, the prefabricated primary mains supply line runs along the upper periphery of the ceiling structure. Suitably located waiting outlets are available for supplying current to each room through suitable wiring means embedded in the service partitions provided with the necessary switches, outlets, etc.

The wiring system is grounded in the duct and pipe and wiring cell, the TV antenna mast being secured to the special tub overlying the cell.

Heating system the duct and pipe or service cell is used as a boiler-room, thus, the boiler is installed in this cell, with the chimney flue opening within the roofing into the special tub provided to this end. The heating pipes of the primary circuit run along the empty space left between the roofing tubs and the false ceiling, all round the construction. Waiting outlets are provided at spaced intervals for connecting the system to each radiator, by means of piping extending through the service partitions provided to this end as required in each room. The distribution system is completely prefabricated and consists of sections adapted to be easily assembled on the construction site.

If a forced air heating system is contemplated, the metal or plastic ducts open into the empty space provided above the ceiling under the roofing tubs and lead to grid-protected outlets formed in the ceiling of each room.

Plumbing the general water-supply piping system is of course properly lagged and extends through the sanitary gap or empty space provided under the floor. The same applies to the pipes for draining off rainwater, waste water and sewage water, the prefabricated assembly being fitted in position during the floor construction. The connecting-in of the vertical pipe sections is effected at the level of a floor girder in the duct and pipe cell, this girder being removed to this end, and also through holes formed from the onset at the workshop through the floor panels.

All the supply and drain pipes and ducts for the various appliances are disposed within the duct and pipe cell and secured to the walls, this applying to all apparatus and appliances.

The down-pipes for the rain-water extend within the cell from the special tub covering the top of the duct and pipe cell. The grids for ventilating the adjacent rooms are disposed on. The walls of this cell; the rigid or flexible ducts for the ventilation, air-conditioning and aeration systems, whether of the natural or forced type, are also disposed on these walls and open under the roof to the special tub.

All plumbing piping consist of prefabricated sections which are subsequently connected to the respective systems on the site. All ducts and pipes are secured to the framework by means of flexible collars or staples adapted to allow for their thermal expansion while assuring their sound insulation. Likewise, the passages through the partitions and walls and the hardward for anchoring these ducts and pipes to these partitions and are isolated by flexible strips and joint materials, the assembly thus obtained being characterised by a high degree of comfort for the occupants from the point of view of noise propagation.

The construction is completed by various finishing elements, such as prefabricated interior stairs having a floor area equal to one square module or modular unit; these stair units are assembled at the building side about four corner posts provided for supporting the trussed beams constituting in this case the storey floor framework; the position of these stairs is subordinate to the lay-out contemplated.

prefabricated exterior stairs; this provides access from the building ground to the floor of the construction, and is secured by screws to the frames of the panels provided to this end.

fixed frame the arrangement is the same as for other parts of the structure; it is prefabricated and assembled on the site. It allows construction of attics, etc.

Of course, many modifications and variations may be made to the examplary embodiment shown and described herein without departing from the basic principles of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

What is claimed as new is:

1. A building structure for forming buildings of any plan configuration and of single or multiple stories by use of prefabricated elements forming modular space units, said building structure comprising:

at least two horizontally extending lattice networds, said lattice networks being vertically spaced from each other by a distance equal to a story of a building being constructed, the uppermost of said lattice networks fomiing roof supporting means for said building, the lowermost of said lattice networks forming floor supporting means for said building, each of said lattice networks comprising:

a plurality of vertically extending short posts;

a plurality of horizontally extending trussed beams, each having a height substantially equal to the height of said short posts; and

means for removably connecting opposite ends of said trussed beams to said short posts, said trussed beams extending from said short posts at substantially right angles to each other, thereby forming said lattice network;

plurality of vertically extending main posts, each having a height equal to said distance, each said main post being vertically aligned with and posi- 1 l tioned between short posts of vertically adjacent of said lattice networks;

means for removably fixing opposite ends of each of said main posts to ends of respective of said aligned short posts;

said main posts and said trussed beams of said lattice networks forming modular space units of said building being constructed; and

a roof structure supported on said uppermost of said lattice networks; said roof structure comprising a plurality of tub-shaped elements each having flanged edges, said flanged edges being fitted over said trussed beams of said uppermost lattice network; channel members positioned over said flanged edges and secured to said trussed beams; sealing strips positioned between said channel members and said flanged edges; and means on said tub-shaped elements for collecting rain water.

2. A structure as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a floor structure supported on said lowermost of said lattice networks; said floor structure comprising prefabricated girders, each formed of opposed concave channel elements attached to each other to provide a cavity, said cavity being filled with a sound and heat insulating material.

3. A structure as claimed in claim 1, further comprising cross-shaped elements positioned over said channel members at the position of intersection thereof.

4. A structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said rain water collecting means comprises nozzles interconnecting adjacent of said tub-shaped elements.

5. A structure as claimed in claim I, wherein said tub-shaped elements have a lyre-shaped cross-sectional contour.

6. A structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said tub-shaped elements have on the bottom surface thereof a layer of heat insulating material.

7. A structure as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a plurality of prefabricated exterior wall panels; and means for attaching said exterior wall panels to said building being constructed at positions exterior of said main posts.

8. A structure as claimed in claim 7, wherein each of said exterior wall panels comprises a tubular frame, opposite facing sheets covering said tubular frame, and a core of insulating material within said tubular frame between said facing sheets.

9. A structure as claimed in claim 8, further comprising a section member extending along the periphery of each said exterior wall panel, said section member having therein a central cavity with two lateral grooves, and further comprising a sealing strip positioned in each said groove.

10. A structure as claimed in claim 9, wherein said section member has flanges extending over the edges of said exterior wall panel.

11. A structure as claimed in claim 7, wherein said attaching means comprising connections positioned at the respective trussed beams adjacent the upper portion of each said exterior wall panel.

12. A structure as claimed in claim 11, wherein said connections comprise hook means attached to said trussed beams for engaging said upper portions of said exterior wall panels.

13. A structure as claimed in claim 1, further comprising interior panels positioned between adjacent horizontally spaced main posts and between adjacent vertically spaced trussed beams.

14. A structure as claimed in claim 13, wherein each of said interior panels comprises opposed facing sheets, insulation material between said facing sheets, and means at the upper and lower portions of said interior panels for centering and positioning said interior panels with the adjacent ceiling and floor, respectively.

15. A structure as claimed in claim 14, wherein each said interior panel further comprises an enframing section member having recess means for providing between adjacent said interior panels a central cavity for the receipt of utilities.

16. A structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of said trussed beams comprises upper and lower channel elements interconnected by bracing members.

17. A building structure for forming buildings of any plan configuration and of single or multiple stories by use of prefabricated elements forming modular space units, said building structure comprising:

at least two horizontally extending lattice networks, said lattice networks being vertically spaced from each other by a distance equal to a story of a building being constructed, the uppermost of said lattice networks forming roof supporting means for said building, the lowermost of said lattice networks forming floor supporting means for said building, each of said lattice networks comprising:

a plurality of vertically extending short posts;

a plurality of horizontally extending trussed beams, each having a height substantially equal to the height of said short posts; and

means for removably connecting opposite ends of said trussed beams to said short posts, said trussed beams extending from said short posts at substantially right angles to each other, thereby forming said lattice network;

plurality of vertically extending main posts, each having a height equal to said distance, each said main post being vertically aligned with and positioned between short posts of vertically adjacent of said lattice networks;

means for removably fixing opposite ends of each of said main posts to ends of respective of said aligned short posts;

said main posts and said trussed beams of said lattice networks forming modular space units of said building being constructed; and

interior panels positioned between adjacent horizontally spaced main posts and between adjacent vertically spaced trussed beams, each of said interior panels comprising opposed facing sheets, insulation material between said facing sheets, means at the upper and lower portions of said interior panels for centering and positioning said interior panels with the adjacent ceiling and floor, respectively, and an enframing section member having recess means for providing between adjacent said interior panels a central cavity for the receipt of utilities.

18. A building structure for forming buildings of any plan configuration and of single or multiple stories by use of prefabricated elements forming modular space units, said building structure comprising:

at least two horizontally extending lattice networks,

said lattice networks being vertically spaced from each other by a distance equal to a story of a building being constructed, the uppermost of said lattice networks forming roof supporting means for said building, the lowermost of said lattice networks forming floor supporting means for said building,

each of said lattice networks comprising:

a plurality of vertically extending short posts;

a plurality of horizontally extending trussed beams, each having a height substantially equal to the height of said short posts; and

means for removably connecting opposite ends of said trussed beams to said short posts, said trussed beams extending from said short posts at substantially right angles to each other, thereby forming said lattice network;

a plurality of vertically extending main posts, each having a height equal to said distance, each said main post being vertically aligned with and positioned between short posts of vertically adjacent of said lattice networks;

means for removably fixing opposite ends of each of said main posts to ends of respective of said aligned short posts, said means for fixing each of said main posts to said short posts comprising a pair of base plates, one attached to said main post and the other attached to said short post, said base plates being attached to each other, each base plate having projections extending therefrom into the respective post, each said projection having an anchoring hole for receipt of an anchoring pin; and

said main posts and said trussed beams of said lattice networks forming modular space units of said building being constructed.

19. A building structure for forming buildings of any plan configuration and of single or multiple stories by use of prefabricated elements forming modular space units, said building structure comprising:

at least two horizontally extending lattice networks, said lattice networks being vertically spaced from each other by a distance equal to a story of a building being constructed, the uppermost of said lattice networks forming roof supporting means for said building, the lowermost of said lattice networks forming floor supporting means for said building, each of said lattice networks comprising:

a plurality of vertically extending short posts;

a plurality of horizontally extending trussed beams, each having a height substantially equal to the height of said short posts; and

means for removably connecting opposite ends of said trussed beams to said short posts, said trussed beams extending from said short posts at substantially right angles to each other, thereby forming said lattice network;

a plurality of vertically extending main posts, each having a height equal to said distance, each said main post being vertically aligned with and positioned between short posts of vertically adjacent of said lattice networks;

means for removably fixing opposite ends of each of said main posts to ends of respective of said aligned short posts;

said main posts and said trussed beams of said lattice networks fonning modular space units of said building being constructed; and

said building being constructed having therein a vertically extending channel of modular space units forming a service cell, said service cell having walls with means for receipt of and distribution of utility networks. 

1. A building structure for forming buildings of any plan configuration and of single or multiple stories by use of prefabricated elements forming modular space units, said building structure comprising: at least two horizontally extending lattice networds, said lattice networks being vertically spaced from each other by a distance equal to a story of a building being constructed, the uppermost of said lattice networks forming roof supporting means for said building, the lowermost of said lattice networks forming floor supporting means for said building, each of said lattice networks comprising: a plurality of vertically extending short posts; a plurality of horizontally extending trussed beams, each having a height substantially equal to the height of said short posts; and means for removably connecting opposite ends of said trussed beams to said short posts, said trussed beams extending from said short posts at substantially right angles to each other, thereby forming said lattice network; a plurality of vertically extending main posts, each having a height equal to said distance, each said main post being vertically aligned with and positioned between short posts of vertically adjacent of said lattice networks; means for removably fixing opposite ends of each of said main posts to ends of respective of said aligned short posts; said main posts and said trussed beams of said lattice networks forming modular space units of said building being constructed; and a roof structure supported on said uppermost of said lattice networks; said roof structure comprising a plurality of tubshaped elements each having flanged edges, said flanged edges being fitted over said trussed beams of said uppermost lattice network; channel members positioned over said flanged edges and secured to said trussed beams; sealing strips positioned between said channel members and said flanged edges; and means on said tub-shaped elements for collecting rain water.
 2. A structure as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a floor structure supported on said lowermost of said lattice networks; said floor structure comprising prefabricated girders, each formed of opposed concave channel elements attached to each other to provide a cavity, said cavity being filled with a sound and heat insulating material.
 3. A structure as claimed in claim 1, further comprising cross-shaped elements positioned over said channel members at the position of intersection thereof.
 4. A structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said rain water collecting means comprises nozzles interconnecting adjacent of said tub-shaped elements.
 5. A structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said tub-shaped elements have a lyre-shaped cross-sectional contour.
 6. A structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein said tub-shaped elements have on the bottom surface thereof a layer of heat insulating material.
 7. A structure as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a plurality of prefabricated exterior wall panels; and means for attaching said exterior wall panels to said building being constructed at positions exterior of said main posts.
 8. A structure as claimed in claim 7, wherein each of said exterior wall panels comprises a tubular frame, opposite facing sheets covering said tubular frame, and a core of insulating material within said tubular frame between said facing sheets.
 9. A structure as claimed in claim 8, further comprising a section member extending along the periphery of each said exterior wall panel, said section member having therein a central cavity with two lateral grooves, and further comprising a sealing strip positioned in each said groove.
 10. A structure as claimed in claim 9, wherein said section member has flanges extending over the edges of said exterior wall panel.
 11. A structure as claimed in claim 7, wherein said attaching means comprising connections positioned at the respective trussed beams adjacent the upper portion of each said exterior wall panel.
 12. A structure as claimed in claim 11, wherein said connections comprise hook means attached to said trussed beams for engaging said upper portions of said exterior wall panels.
 13. A structure as claimed in claim 1, further comprising interior panels positioned between adjacent horizontally spaced main posts and between adjacent vertically spaced trussed beams.
 14. A structure as claimed in claim 13, wherein each of said interior panels comprises opposed facing sheets, insulation material between said facing sheets, and means at the upper and lower portions of said interior panels for centering and positioning said interior panels with the adjacent ceiling and floor, respectively.
 15. A structure as claimed in claim 14, wherein each said interior panel further comprises an enframing section member having recess means for providing between adjacent said interior panels a central cavity for the receipt of utilities.
 16. A structure as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of said trussed beams comprises upper and lower channel elements interconnected by bracing members.
 17. A building structure for forming buildings of any plan configuration and of single or multiple stories by use of prefabricated elements forming modular space units, said building structure comprising: at least two horizontally extending lattice networks, said lattice networks being vertically spaced from each other by a distance equal to a story of a building being constructed, the uppermost of said lattice networks forming roof supporting means for said building, the lowermost of said lattice networks forming floor supporting means for said building, each of said lattice networks comprising: a plurality of vertically extending short posts; a plurality of horizontally extending trussed beams, eAch having a height substantially equal to the height of said short posts; and means for removably connecting opposite ends of said trussed beams to said short posts, said trussed beams extending from said short posts at substantially right angles to each other, thereby forming said lattice network; a plurality of vertically extending main posts, each having a height equal to said distance, each said main post being vertically aligned with and positioned between short posts of vertically adjacent of said lattice networks; means for removably fixing opposite ends of each of said main posts to ends of respective of said aligned short posts; said main posts and said trussed beams of said lattice networks forming modular space units of said building being constructed; and interior panels positioned between adjacent horizontally spaced main posts and between adjacent vertically spaced trussed beams, each of said interior panels comprising opposed facing sheets, insulation material between said facing sheets, means at the upper and lower portions of said interior panels for centering and positioning said interior panels with the adjacent ceiling and floor, respectively, and an enframing section member having recess means for providing between adjacent said interior panels a central cavity for the receipt of utilities.
 18. A building structure for forming buildings of any plan configuration and of single or multiple stories by use of prefabricated elements forming modular space units, said building structure comprising: at least two horizontally extending lattice networks, said lattice networks being vertically spaced from each other by a distance equal to a story of a building being constructed, the uppermost of said lattice networks forming roof supporting means for said building, the lowermost of said lattice networks forming floor supporting means for said building, each of said lattice networks comprising: a plurality of vertically extending short posts; a plurality of horizontally extending trussed beams, each having a height substantially equal to the height of said short posts; and means for removably connecting opposite ends of said trussed beams to said short posts, said trussed beams extending from said short posts at substantially right angles to each other, thereby forming said lattice network; a plurality of vertically extending main posts, each having a height equal to said distance, each said main post being vertically aligned with and positioned between short posts of vertically adjacent of said lattice networks; means for removably fixing opposite ends of each of said main posts to ends of respective of said aligned short posts, said means for fixing each of said main posts to said short posts comprising a pair of base plates, one attached to said main post and the other attached to said short post, said base plates being attached to each other, each base plate having projections extending therefrom into the respective post, each said projection having an anchoring hole for receipt of an anchoring pin; and said main posts and said trussed beams of said lattice networks forming modular space units of said building being constructed.
 19. A building structure for forming buildings of any plan configuration and of single or multiple stories by use of prefabricated elements forming modular space units, said building structure comprising: at least two horizontally extending lattice networks, said lattice networks being vertically spaced from each other by a distance equal to a story of a building being constructed, the uppermost of said lattice networks forming roof supporting means for said building, the lowermost of said lattice networks forming floor supporting means for said building, each of said lattice networks comprising: a plurality of vertically extending short posts; a plurality of horizontally extending trussed beams, each having a height substantially equal to the height of said short posts; and means for removably connecting opposite ends of said trussed beams to said short posts, said trussed beams extending from said short posts at substantially right angles to each other, thereby forming said lattice network; a plurality of vertically extending main posts, each having a height equal to said distance, each said main post being vertically aligned with and positioned between short posts of vertically adjacent of said lattice networks; means for removably fixing opposite ends of each of said main posts to ends of respective of said aligned short posts; said main posts and said trussed beams of said lattice networks forming modular space units of said building being constructed; and said building being constructed having therein a vertically extending channel of modular space units forming a service cell, said service cell having walls with means for receipt of and distribution of utility networks. 